Material versus Non-Material Damage: Differences and Combination
Material damage encompasses measurable costs such as hospital bills and loss of income (Article 6:95 of the Dutch Civil Code), whereas non-material damage pertains to compensation for pain and suffering. Both are frequently combined in personal injury claims.
Key Differences
| Aspect | Material | Non-Material |
|---|---|---|
| Calculation | Invoices and payslips | Fairness and guidelines |
| Evidence | Quantifiable | Medical and subjective |
| Impact on Assets | Direct financial | Psychological |
Combining Claims
In a traffic accident claim: €30,000 material damage + €15,000 non-material damage. Full compensation requires claiming both. Tax-free, but offsettable against benefits.
Strategy: Have an expert quantify the total damage to maximize compensation.